Sexual Abuse Therapists in Iowa City, IA

Photo of Richelle Derfus, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa City, IA
Richelle Derfus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52240
I assist in helping clients heal from trauma, sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, eating disorder recovery and substance use recovery. I use a wide variety of treatment modalities to assist in overcoming difficulties. I use several treatment modalities, based on what you need. I am certified in EMDR, which is a first line treatment for helping people to overcome trauma. It is also used to treat other emotional experiences. I also assist with people struggling to cope in healthy manners, and help you to discover and implement new coping skills. You will learn new skills to assist you in having the life you want.
I assist in helping clients heal from trauma, sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, eating disorder recovery and substance use recovery. I use a wide variety of treatment modalities to assist in overcoming difficulties. I use several treatment modalities, based on what you need. I am certified in EMDR, which is a first line treatment for helping people to overcome trauma. It is also used to treat other emotional experiences. I also assist with people struggling to cope in healthy manners, and help you to discover and implement new coping skills. You will learn new skills to assist you in having the life you want.
(319) 250-4305 View (319) 250-4305
Photo of Sarah Jacobs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa City, IA
Sarah Jacobs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52246
Waitlist for new clients
In addition, I've worked with college students and individuals who have experienced sexual harassment, sexual assault, depression, anxiety, PTSD, substance use, life transitions, family issues, and disordered eating.
As a mental health professional with many years of experience in a hospital, corporate wellness, and community crisis counseling setting, I am passionate about helping others. I received my Master of Social Work degree from the University of Iowa. Throughout my experiences, I've witnessed individuals make meaningful and lasting changes in their lives, drawing strength from their experiences and the struggles they've overcome. I want to help individuals be the best version of themselves and help them work through any past trauma that might be holding them back.
In addition, I've worked with college students and individuals who have experienced sexual harassment, sexual assault, depression, anxiety, PTSD, substance use, life transitions, family issues, and disordered eating.
As a mental health professional with many years of experience in a hospital, corporate wellness, and community crisis counseling setting, I am passionate about helping others. I received my Master of Social Work degree from the University of Iowa. Throughout my experiences, I've witnessed individuals make meaningful and lasting changes in their lives, drawing strength from their experiences and the struggles they've overcome. I want to help individuals be the best version of themselves and help them work through any past trauma that might be holding them back.
(319) 727-8729 View (319) 727-8729
Photo of Lindsey Piper, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa City, IA
Lindsey Piper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LISW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52240
Waitlist for new clients
My background in crisis intervention, sexual abuse, and domestic violence helps me work well with survivors of trauma.
Poet Anne Sexton wrote, "That the worst of anyone Can be, finally, An accident of hope." If you're here, you probably feel at your worst. Maybe a traumatic event has left you feeling broken and lost. Perhaps what you've been doing to cope just isn't working anymore, or is doing more harm than good. Whatever your reasons, I'm glad you're thinking about therapy. This process can be scary and takes hard work, and I welcome anyone courageous enough to seek out hope.
My background in crisis intervention, sexual abuse, and domestic violence helps me work well with survivors of trauma.
Poet Anne Sexton wrote, "That the worst of anyone Can be, finally, An accident of hope." If you're here, you probably feel at your worst. Maybe a traumatic event has left you feeling broken and lost. Perhaps what you've been doing to cope just isn't working anymore, or is doing more harm than good. Whatever your reasons, I'm glad you're thinking about therapy. This process can be scary and takes hard work, and I welcome anyone courageous enough to seek out hope.
(319) 302-3304 View (319) 302-3304
Photo of United Action for Youth Psychotherapy Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa City, IA
United Action for Youth Psychotherapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52244
Waitlist for new clients
Our therapists are trained to treat depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, behavioral problems, family conflict, grief, self-harm (cutting), and the consequences of physical and sexual abuse.
The therapists at United Action for Youth have a unique ability to engage teenagers in individual adolescent psychotherapy. They balance listening with talking; they don't lecture or blame; they tailor their style to increase the youth's comfort. UAY therapists have expertise in the areas that are common concerns for teens, parents, and young adults. Although our focus is serving youth 10-25, we can also provide services for adults if space is available.
Our therapists are trained to treat depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, behavioral problems, family conflict, grief, self-harm (cutting), and the consequences of physical and sexual abuse.
The therapists at United Action for Youth have a unique ability to engage teenagers in individual adolescent psychotherapy. They balance listening with talking; they don't lecture or blame; they tailor their style to increase the youth's comfort. UAY therapists have expertise in the areas that are common concerns for teens, parents, and young adults. Although our focus is serving youth 10-25, we can also provide services for adults if space is available.
(319) 313-2518 View (319) 313-2518
Photo of Alyssa Anne Drury, Counselor in Iowa City, IA
Alyssa Anne Drury
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52240
Areas I specialize include anxiety, depression, childhood sexual abuse, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, childhood trauma, cutting and self-harm, grief and loss, domestic violence, Emotional Intensity Disorder, addiction, couples counseling, stress management, adolescents, eating disorders, EAP services, and chronic mental illness.
All of us have some hard and difficult times in life and we need some help. Although this can be humbling, it usually pays off in the end. I am a very flexible and laid back person and am here to help you with whatever it is you are struggling with. There will be no judgment and we will work on what only you want to work on. I believe there is no magic answer to everything and not everything works for everybody, so it is you and I trying to figure out what works best for you.
Areas I specialize include anxiety, depression, childhood sexual abuse, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, childhood trauma, cutting and self-harm, grief and loss, domestic violence, Emotional Intensity Disorder, addiction, couples counseling, stress management, adolescents, eating disorders, EAP services, and chronic mental illness.
All of us have some hard and difficult times in life and we need some help. Although this can be humbling, it usually pays off in the end. I am a very flexible and laid back person and am here to help you with whatever it is you are struggling with. There will be no judgment and we will work on what only you want to work on. I believe there is no magic answer to everything and not everything works for everybody, so it is you and I trying to figure out what works best for you.
(319) 820-0382 View (319) 820-0382
Photo of ABCD Therapy & Consulting, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa City, IA
ABCD Therapy & Consulting, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52242  (Online Only)
We are a team of highly skilled folks who serve a wide variety of client needs. Our agency specifically focuses on support people who have struggled with trauma or complex trauma needs, including child sexual abuse, sexual assault, domestic violence, religious trauma, refugee experiences and survivors of torture. We also support clients who are navigating key identity struggles including transgender and gender diverse clients, racial identity and trauma, grief and loss, and relationship and life transitions. We are experts in multicultural care, and in experiences of anxiety, depression, PTSD, addiction and BPD.
We are a team of highly skilled folks who serve a wide variety of client needs. Our agency specifically focuses on support people who have struggled with trauma or complex trauma needs, including child sexual abuse, sexual assault, domestic violence, religious trauma, refugee experiences and survivors of torture. We also support clients who are navigating key identity struggles including transgender and gender diverse clients, racial identity and trauma, grief and loss, and relationship and life transitions. We are experts in multicultural care, and in experiences of anxiety, depression, PTSD, addiction and BPD.
(515) 824-5002 View (515) 824-5002
Photo of Lindabeth Rivera, Counselor in Iowa City, IA
Lindabeth Rivera
Counselor, MS, NCC, LCPC, CADC, CATP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52242
I have had experience counseling clients with substance abuse, counseling adolescents and teens, counseling suicidal clients, as well as, sexual assault Survivors.
" What consumes your mind, controls your life" Are you or someone you know dealing with something right now that does not seem to end? Feeling like giving up? Frustrated? Afraid? Feeling confused and needing direction? Maybe you have been feeling like no one understands, or that you can handle it on your own. As much as we would all like to handle it on our own, the truth is everyone can use someone to talk with. I am a believer in experiences making you who you are. These experiences can either consume you, or shape you.
I have had experience counseling clients with substance abuse, counseling adolescents and teens, counseling suicidal clients, as well as, sexual assault Survivors.
" What consumes your mind, controls your life" Are you or someone you know dealing with something right now that does not seem to end? Feeling like giving up? Frustrated? Afraid? Feeling confused and needing direction? Maybe you have been feeling like no one understands, or that you can handle it on your own. As much as we would all like to handle it on our own, the truth is everyone can use someone to talk with. I am a believer in experiences making you who you are. These experiences can either consume you, or shape you.
(224) 243-8208 View (224) 243-8208
Photo of Molly Barrett, Counselor in Iowa City, IA
Molly Barrett
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52240  (Online Only)
My diverse therapeutic approach allows me to help clients experiencing a variety of challenges such as anxiety, depression, and sexual assault/abuse.
Accepting new clients to the agency. Hooray! You are here! You have taken a courageous first step on the road to healing, whether you are looking for yourself or someone you love. As the counselor, I am here to walk by your side! I strive to create a safe and welcoming space for you as you process and work through past and/or present challenges. We will work as a team to address challenges, set obtainable goals, and to work towards those goals in and outside of our therapy sessions.
My diverse therapeutic approach allows me to help clients experiencing a variety of challenges such as anxiety, depression, and sexual assault/abuse.
Accepting new clients to the agency. Hooray! You are here! You have taken a courageous first step on the road to healing, whether you are looking for yourself or someone you love. As the counselor, I am here to walk by your side! I strive to create a safe and welcoming space for you as you process and work through past and/or present challenges. We will work as a team to address challenges, set obtainable goals, and to work towards those goals in and outside of our therapy sessions.
(800) 531-4236 View (800) 531-4236
Photo of Dana Keeton, Counselor in Iowa City, IA
Dana Keeton
Counselor, ATR-BC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52240
I provide an accepting, creative, and supportive space for clients to safely process challenges, build on strengths, and learn new skills to empower personal growth. I am a registered, board-certified art therapist, and a licensed mental health counselor. My work with clients focuses on an integrative mind-body approach rooted in trauma-informed art psychotherapy. In my sessions I incorporate art therapy, breath work, EMDR, hypnosis/hypnotherapy, mindfulness, and movement techniques.
I provide an accepting, creative, and supportive space for clients to safely process challenges, build on strengths, and learn new skills to empower personal growth. I am a registered, board-certified art therapist, and a licensed mental health counselor. My work with clients focuses on an integrative mind-body approach rooted in trauma-informed art psychotherapy. In my sessions I incorporate art therapy, breath work, EMDR, hypnosis/hypnotherapy, mindfulness, and movement techniques.
(319) 318-0148 View (319) 318-0148
Photo of B. Remi Greenbaum, Psychologist in Iowa City, IA
B. Remi Greenbaum
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52246  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome, thank you for being here. I see (many) experiences of suffering as inevitable and how we respond and care for ourselves through them matters. My work is based on a philosophy of learning to suffer well, meaning that we engage with curiosity and kindness, as we develop new ways to soothe distress and communicate with honesty and respect. Together we can tend to the roots of your suffering and make room for joy. I work from a trauma and compassion lens and integrate other EBTs. I prioritize safety, trustworthiness and transparency, collaborating and empowering your voice and choice while respecting your culture and history.
Welcome, thank you for being here. I see (many) experiences of suffering as inevitable and how we respond and care for ourselves through them matters. My work is based on a philosophy of learning to suffer well, meaning that we engage with curiosity and kindness, as we develop new ways to soothe distress and communicate with honesty and respect. Together we can tend to the roots of your suffering and make room for joy. I work from a trauma and compassion lens and integrate other EBTs. I prioritize safety, trustworthiness and transparency, collaborating and empowering your voice and choice while respecting your culture and history.
(319) 552-6523 View (319) 552-6523
Photo of Julie Jack Marriage Family Therapist, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Iowa City, IA
Julie Jack Marriage Family Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52242
I am currently accepting new clients. Relationships can be one of the greatest sources of joy or distress in our lives. All couples go through challenges. However, maybe you feel the conflict with your partner has reached a point that it's affecting your mental health, your parenting, and even your desire to stay together. Whether you want to repair your relationship or you are seriously considering leaving it, I can help you navigate that process and figure out what is best for you.
I am currently accepting new clients. Relationships can be one of the greatest sources of joy or distress in our lives. All couples go through challenges. However, maybe you feel the conflict with your partner has reached a point that it's affecting your mental health, your parenting, and even your desire to stay together. Whether you want to repair your relationship or you are seriously considering leaving it, I can help you navigate that process and figure out what is best for you.
(319) 220-3081 View (319) 220-3081
Photo of Julie Jack, Marriage & Family Therapist in Iowa City, IA
Julie Jack
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52242
I am currently accepting new clients. Are you struggling with trauma, relationship problems, depression, anxiety or fear? I understand how difficult it is to ask for help. Whatever you are going through, you don’t have to deal with it alone. I am here to listen and guide you on a new path. I believe that the body and spirit are important components of healing and can’t/shouldn’t be ignored. I use an integrative approach that includes mind, body, and spirit.
I am currently accepting new clients. Are you struggling with trauma, relationship problems, depression, anxiety or fear? I understand how difficult it is to ask for help. Whatever you are going through, you don’t have to deal with it alone. I am here to listen and guide you on a new path. I believe that the body and spirit are important components of healing and can’t/shouldn’t be ignored. I use an integrative approach that includes mind, body, and spirit.
(319) 214-7870 View (319) 214-7870
Photo of Julie Anderson, Mental Health Counselor in Iowa City, IA
Julie Anderson
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52240
Life can bring many challenges, struggles, and difficult times. All of us have had seasons when we felt stuck and hopeless and in need of a starting point for healing and recovery. Very often, the past is present in disruptive ways, making it difficult to enjoy the moment or causing damage to our relationships. Sometimes worries can become consuming and we find ourselves simply surviving, instead of thriving. My passion is to walk alongside you, offering evidence-based treatment approaches, as you discover and embrace the life you want to live.
Life can bring many challenges, struggles, and difficult times. All of us have had seasons when we felt stuck and hopeless and in need of a starting point for healing and recovery. Very often, the past is present in disruptive ways, making it difficult to enjoy the moment or causing damage to our relationships. Sometimes worries can become consuming and we find ourselves simply surviving, instead of thriving. My passion is to walk alongside you, offering evidence-based treatment approaches, as you discover and embrace the life you want to live.
(712) 357-8454 View (712) 357-8454
Photo of Sojourner Psychotherapy PLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa City, IA
Sojourner Psychotherapy PLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, RPT, CADC
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52246
I consider it my privilege to join with others as they share their stories of who they are, the challenges and joys of where they have been and assisting them as they discover what lies ahead in their life's journey. Anyone who has a curiosity about who they are, how life events and circumstances affect them, have a willingness to change with a hope of where they want to be in life... is welcome.
I consider it my privilege to join with others as they share their stories of who they are, the challenges and joys of where they have been and assisting them as they discover what lies ahead in their life's journey. Anyone who has a curiosity about who they are, how life events and circumstances affect them, have a willingness to change with a hope of where they want to be in life... is welcome.
(319) 339-1111 View (319) 339-1111
Photo of JoAnna Romero Cartaya, Psychologist in Iowa City, IA
JoAnna Romero Cartaya
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52240
Accepting new therapy clients for Fall 2023! I enjoy meeting with high school/college/graduate students and professionals who want to live life with authenticy, courage, and purpose and who are seeking ways to recharge and reconnect to themselves. Although experiences of life, including trauma, anxiety, or depression as well as changes or expansions of our responsibilities may impact how we think, feel, and behave these life experiences, while overwhelming at times, can also lead to the greatest growth, discovery, and reclaiming confidence and perhaps above all discovering that life is truly meaningful even while imperfect.
Accepting new therapy clients for Fall 2023! I enjoy meeting with high school/college/graduate students and professionals who want to live life with authenticy, courage, and purpose and who are seeking ways to recharge and reconnect to themselves. Although experiences of life, including trauma, anxiety, or depression as well as changes or expansions of our responsibilities may impact how we think, feel, and behave these life experiences, while overwhelming at times, can also lead to the greatest growth, discovery, and reclaiming confidence and perhaps above all discovering that life is truly meaningful even while imperfect.
(319) 774-8237 View (319) 774-8237
Photo of Jill Johnson, Counselor in Iowa City, IA
Jill Johnson
Counselor, LMHC, IADC, SAP
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52240
I enjoy working with individuals ready to start their journey with therapy in a safe, non-judgemental, and confidential environment. My approach is eclectic, utilizing a collaborative approach to help foster positive life changes that improve quality of life. I work with individuals experiencing a wide range of concerns including: depression, anxiety, work and family stressors, communication difficulties, marital problems, life transitions, trauma, substance use, gambling, co-occurring disorders, and adjustment to disability.
I enjoy working with individuals ready to start their journey with therapy in a safe, non-judgemental, and confidential environment. My approach is eclectic, utilizing a collaborative approach to help foster positive life changes that improve quality of life. I work with individuals experiencing a wide range of concerns including: depression, anxiety, work and family stressors, communication difficulties, marital problems, life transitions, trauma, substance use, gambling, co-occurring disorders, and adjustment to disability.
(319) 820-0078 View (319) 820-0078
Photo of A Graceful Space, LLC , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa City, IA
A Graceful Space, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52240
Are you struggling with depression and anxiety? Do you find yourself overwhelmed with emotions, like the weight of the world is on top of your shoulders? You don't have to carry these burdens alone. At A Graceful Space, I thrive on giving grace and holding space in a peaceful, nonjudgmental environment. By utilizing evidence-based, trauma-informed care, my goal is to walk alongside you while you process through past and present stressors, in order to reach your life worth living goals.
Are you struggling with depression and anxiety? Do you find yourself overwhelmed with emotions, like the weight of the world is on top of your shoulders? You don't have to carry these burdens alone. At A Graceful Space, I thrive on giving grace and holding space in a peaceful, nonjudgmental environment. By utilizing evidence-based, trauma-informed care, my goal is to walk alongside you while you process through past and present stressors, in order to reach your life worth living goals.
(319) 346-3438 View (319) 346-3438
Photo of Susan Lynn Totten, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa City, IA
Susan Lynn Totten
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52245
The therapeutic relationship can be a very important one and, like any other healthy relationship, it is based on mutual respect, trust and commitment. I approach our work together with a nonjudgmental stance. I will meet you wherever you are in your life's journey and honor your unique strengths. I support clients in creating their most fulfilling lives, in line with their values and goals. I incorporate mindfulness into a collaborative and client-centered process and employ an honest, direct communication.
The therapeutic relationship can be a very important one and, like any other healthy relationship, it is based on mutual respect, trust and commitment. I approach our work together with a nonjudgmental stance. I will meet you wherever you are in your life's journey and honor your unique strengths. I support clients in creating their most fulfilling lives, in line with their values and goals. I incorporate mindfulness into a collaborative and client-centered process and employ an honest, direct communication.
(319) 774-3358 View (319) 774-3358
Photo of Julian and Associates Psychotherapy Services PC, Counselor in Iowa City, IA
Julian and Associates Psychotherapy Services PC
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, ACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52245
Waitlist for new clients
Dr. Julian has been in mental health practice since 2004 and is dedicated to the empowerment of her clients. She has specialty training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy from EMDRIA and Sex Therapy from the Florida Sex Therapy Institute.
Dr. Julian has been in mental health practice since 2004 and is dedicated to the empowerment of her clients. She has specialty training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy from EMDRIA and Sex Therapy from the Florida Sex Therapy Institute.
(319) 250-4836 View (319) 250-4836
Photo of Anne K. Wiser, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa City, IA
Anne K. Wiser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52245  (Online Only)
With compassion and in a non-judging atmosphere, I partner with you to help you develop your personal wisdom and achieve the changes you aspire to. Prior to becoming a psychotherapist, I conducted brain research. My knowledge of how the brain functions guides my psychotherapy practice. I provide mental health counseling to adults with a variety of diagnoses. I have experience helping people resolve a wide range of problems, including depression, anxiety, unstable mood, low self-esteem, trauma & abuse including PTSD.
With compassion and in a non-judging atmosphere, I partner with you to help you develop your personal wisdom and achieve the changes you aspire to. Prior to becoming a psychotherapist, I conducted brain research. My knowledge of how the brain functions guides my psychotherapy practice. I provide mental health counseling to adults with a variety of diagnoses. I have experience helping people resolve a wide range of problems, including depression, anxiety, unstable mood, low self-esteem, trauma & abuse including PTSD.
(319) 313-2155 View (319) 313-2155
Sexual Abuse Therapists

How do therapists treat sexual abuse?

A good therapist will be nonjudgmental and possibly demonstrate active listening, repeating back what the client says to show that they have understood. These skills allow people to feel comfortable discussing their traumatic experiences openly. Some important treatment goals are to restore a sense of safety and to rebuild confidence. In addition to working one-on-one with the patient, a therapist might bring in supportive family members to assist the client.

Do you have to talk extensively about sexual abuse in therapy?

Survivors frequently find it difficult to describe what happened to them out loud. They can even still be in a state of denial if the sexual abuse occurred recently. It is important for survivors to acknowledge that what happened isn’t their fault and to challenge and reappraise any unhealthy feelings or thoughts as they arise. Art therapy and play therapy are useful non-verbal means of communication for some survivors.

How long does treatment for sexual abuse take?

Recovery from sexual abuse can be a long and difficult process. Some survivors are able to move on naturally on their own, given time, while others require the guidance of a trained therapist. Therapy needs vary and can range from a few sessions to months or even years. Healing from sexual abuse takes time, and everyone’s journey will look a little different.

Can trauma symptoms caused by sexual abuse come back after treatment?

As occurs in many cases of trauma, survivors of sexual abuse may experience PTSD-like symptoms long after the abuse has ceased or after an initial round of treatment has occurred. In such a case, there is evidence that prolonged exposure therapy is a useful treatment for survivors, and may be more efficacious than supportive counseling alone. While triggers may continue to cause distress, the idea is that, with time and repeated exposure, their power will fade, allowing survivors to move on with their lives.